Meet the Maker: John Kopp, IU1

In 2016, Adam Savage went on what he called his "Maker's Tour," visiting several makerspaces around the country. His very first stop? Intermediate Unit 1, whom we approached again for Project Egress.

In 2016, Adam Savage went on what he called his “Maker’s Tour,” visiting several makerspaces around the country. His very first stop? Intermediate Unit 1, whose program was SO impressive.

Learn more about IU1 and one of its instructors, John Kopp, who led the school’s involvement in Project Egress.

Bio: John Kopp is a Fab Lab teacher at Intermediate Unit 1 Educational Campus at Waynesburg. IU1 provides education and related services to students in grades preK–12 who are in need of highly supportive and comprehensive special education services that are not available in the public school setting. Intermediate Unit 1 has done many exciting projects with their students to enhance their learning experience and unlock their full potential through the use of IU1’s stationary and mobile Fab Labs.

PART #14: LEFT HAND DOUBLE LATCH ASSEMBLY WITH PULLER

Artist Statement: “The IU1 Fab Lab serves students in southwestern Pennsylvania. The IU1 build crew for this special Apollo 11 project consisted of 5 elementary special education students that were present in the Fab Lab for extended school year programming. The crew began the build with the Fab Lab teacher explaining this special Apollo 11 classified project and its significance. Through this special opportunity, IU1 introduced students to the IU1 Fab Lab and digital fabrication. These 5 students had previously seen 3D printers, but none had ever used a 3D printer or had ever prepared 3D printer files. Project Egress offered a great way to discuss the many facets of 3D printing from build strength based on infill, use of supports and different support material, print time, print orientation and more. It was also a place to begin conversations about other methods of making and machines within the IU1 Fab Lab. These IU1 special education students enjoyed their time learning about 3D printing and participating in this exciting project for the anniversary of Apollo 11.”

Link: Website